Course Description:  This course treats the ideas around which culture and civilization has developed in the European, North and South American, African, and Asian communities.  Students will study the political, social, intellectual, religious and economic developments and geographic conditions throughout the world.  The goals of the course are achieved primarily through historical investigation.  Students will gain an understanding and appreciation of culture in the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.

·        Grading Scale:

A  90-100

     B  89-80

     C  79-75

     D  74-70

     F  69-below

·        Grading Policy:  The students will receive grades based purely on a points system.  The points available will vary according to the number of graded assignments in a quarter.  Each assignment will have its own point total.  At the end of the quarter, the total number of points available are divided by the total number of points earned.  Of the total points available, 100 will come from class participation and homework assignments that are checked in class.  The class participation grade is a combination of in class assignments and the ability to contribute to the good of the class.  Grades are earned, not given.

·        Tests:  The tests will be a combination of multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, true/false, and short essay questions. Two comprehensive semester exams will also be required at the end of the second and fourth quarters.  The semester exams will be multiple choice and true/false questions only.  All tests will be recollected at the end of each semester prior to taking the semester exam. A state mandated proficiency test (OGT) will also be given in the Spring of the student's sophomore year. This test must be passed in order for the student to graduate.  

·        Homework:  It will be given on a regular basis.  It will be collected and given a grade when appropriate.  Homework is significant to the final grade. Homework may be handed in late, but for no more than half of the point value of the original assignment.

*   Preparation:  Students are expected to be prepared for class on a daily basis.  Students will need a textbook, paper, pen, and a computer on a daily basis. It is also the student's responsibility to ensure that all work needed for class is printed out prior to the beginning of class.  Failure to come prepared to class will be reflected poorly in the class participation grade. 

·        Make-up Work:  All make-up work is the responsibility of the student!  Tests should be retaken the day the student returns to class.  It is important to note, make up tests will not be the same test the rest of the class has taken.  The make up test will generally be of an all essay variety. Any missed quiz will not be made up.  The student is fully responsible for all material presented in class during his absence.  If there is an extended absence, I will be happy to make any necessary arrangements to help. Please contact Mrs. Zilch (Ext.1200) in the guidance department if you would like materials to be sent home.  The absent student should try to obtain notes or information regarding missing assignments from fellow students first.  I will be happy to assist if necessary, but this should take place before or after class.  My phone number at school is 791-1680 (Ext. 1983).

·        Term Paper:  Each student will be required to complete a research paper in the format required by the Moeller Social Studies Department (refer to the Moeller web-site).  The term paper project will take place over the course of the year and will be broken into segments.  No late credit will be given for any portion of the term paper project!  It will not be possible to pass this course for the year without completion of this project.

·        Academic Honesty:  Students will be expected to maintain academic honesty throughout the school year.  This is a serious issue and will be dealt with as such when and if the issue arises.  If the student violates school policy in this matter, he will receive a zero for the assignment and other possible punishments to follow.  The student will also be reported to the Dean of Students and the Dean of Academics.

·        Extra Credit:  This will be made available to the students at the teacher’s discretion.  It is generally made available two weeks prior to the end of each quarter.

·        The Golden Rule:  Treat others the way that you want to be treated.  You are all “Men of Moeller” and I expect that you will behave as such.  It is a privilege to go to school here, not a right!

·        Computers:  The use of computers will take place in the classroom on an as regular basis.  Students are expected to have their laptops in class and in good working order on a daily basis.  Computers will be used as tool to enhance the educational process.  All school and archdiocesan policies regarding the use of computers will be strictly enforced.  Violation of the rules will lead to a loss of class participation points, a loss of computer privileges, and other punishments as necessary.

·        The teacher reserves the right to make any changes necessary in the syllabus for the betterment of the class.